WHALERS KNOLL TRAIL

Three trails lead to the Knoll. One from the entrance road, two from the North Shore Trail. The longest trail over this hill is a 1/2 mile, 25 minutes. Elevation gain: 180 feet. Through woods to views.

"Thar she blows!" Imagine yourself an old-time lookout, stationed on this windy hill to spot the whales on which your livelihood depends. A flagpole once stood here; a signal flag was raised when whales were sighted and dipped when the boat crew was heading in the right direction.

Examine the pines for clusters of orange-and-black monarch butterflies that seek sunny, protected branches for wintering.

According to Point Lobos Docent Dorothy Nye, it's "worth the huffing and puffing - the panoramic view is splendid." If you notice neither, you are on the bypass trail.